The Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) has fast-tracked its vessel procurement program under directives from Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. The move aims to expand Pakistan’s national fleet to 30 ships by 2026, strengthening maritime logistics and reducing dependency on foreign carriers.
In a briefing held in Islamabad, PNSC management reported steady progress in its fleet expansion plan, with key procurement stages nearing completion. The PNSC Board recently approved the acquisition of three secondhand tankers: MT Lorex (renamed MT Karachi) and MT Nafsika (renamed MT Lahore), Aframax-class tankers at USD 74.5 million each, and MT Stavanger Poseidon (renamed MT Quetta), an MR-2 class vessel at USD 44.15 million. Delivery of these vessels is expected by December 2025.
Simultaneously, PNSC has launched procurement for 12 additional vessels, issuing tenders for four LR-2, four MR-2, and four MR-1 class ships. The corporation is reviewing bids and conducting technical evaluations as part of its broader fleet enhancement program.
Minister Chaudhry emphasised that the accelerated procurement will strengthen the country’s shipping capacity, support energy transport, and save significant foreign exchange. Currently, Pakistan spends an estimated USD 4.6 billion annually on freight payments to foreign carriers. By expanding the PNSC fleet, the government aims to increase revenue, improve energy security, and efficiently handle rising import demands.
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